Iowa City school board: A chance to start anew

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Lucas Van Orden IV, guest columnist

Aug 23, 2015 at 5:20 am | Print View

We live in interesting times … Our upcoming school board election presents a rare opportunity to put aside past disagreements, and start anew. As a lifelong resident, business owner, and father of three boys in the ICCSD, I have grown concerned as the public perception of our school board has seemingly faltered of late. It is time for all involved to make a commitment to rebuild trust, restore civility, and focus on serving our children. Our two remaining board members, Chris Lynch and Brian Kirschling, are dedicated servants of the school district, and are focused on team building to restore unity. I embrace their mission, and can assist in advancing their cause. Our children are deserving of a school board that is committed to the greater good, remaining open minded, and receptive to all members of our entire school district. Historically, the district has best been served when our school board was comprised of straight-spoken, ordinary residents who served. In the past, individuals championing a local cause, or professionals with aspirations of micromanaging from the board, have become dejected when their issue falters, and the remainder of their service is hampered by ill feelings and rancor. It’s time for an end to that cycle, and come together in the name of moving forward.

We will have differences in opinion as we navigate significant work ahead, but a world class collection of people to accomplish our goals. That begins with our administration, and extends to our dedicated teachers, and district staff. In my travels around the school district, I am reminded that we are blessed with committed professionals who share a common goal of providing the very best for our children. Our administration and teachers are best supported by electing a board that listens to the public carefully, civilly discusses issues openly, and is decisive. We must demand leadership that provides a clear and unified vision. Then it’s time to allow all the employees of the district to do the job at hand, knowing they have unwavering support from the board. I will strive to add a hardworking, common-sense voice of reason to the discussions ahead. Our mission remains to provide leadership, and remain focused on our children. That is achieved through our support of the district staff and teachers, and providing them our assistance in achieving their very best, in the name of the children we are pledged to serve.